Estrogen pills are a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that contain estrogen, a female sex hormone. They are used to help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, caused by the body making less estrogen. Estrogen pills can also be used by women after menopause to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) . Certain estrogen products may also be used by men and women to treat cancers, such as certain types of prostate cancer and breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, and by women who are not able to produce enough estrogen.

Estrogen pills are taken orally, usually once a day without food, and come in different forms such as conjugated estrogens (Premarin), estradiol (Estrace), and Estratab. They are the most common form of estrogen therapy and have been well-studied. However, estrogen therapy, either used alone or with another hormone (progestin), has been associated with some serious side effects, such as an increased risk of cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer) . Therefore, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of hormone treatment with a doctor before starting estrogen pills.